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Biology - FAQ's

What skills do I need to succeed?

Students majoring in biology should have a strong curiosity
about one or more aspects of biology. While most students will
be especially interested in one particular aspect of biology, it
is important to be open to learning about other aspects to
discover important connections. For example, a student
interested in a health related profession may not be immediately
interested about the ecology of worms but should be open to
learning more to discover important insights about diseases
caused by parasites. The most successful students will be those
with the strongest skills in written and oral communication and
those with strong skills in mathematics, analysis and reasoning.

What I will learn?

Students will develop skills in written and oral
communication, math, analysis and reasoning through their
coursework. Other specific skills will follow from courses
chosen. This includes knowledge of cells, anatomy, physiology,
genetics, taxonomy, evolution and ecology. Hands-on laboratory
sections of biology courses develop skills in laboratory and
field techniques.

What opportunities are there for internships or other
hands-on learning experiences?

All biology majors complete either a capstone internship, or
a research project. There are many opportunities for
internships, research experience and job shadowing in the
various fields of biology.

What are some possible entry-level careers with a
degree in this field?

There are many health related professions such as medicine,
physical therapy, dentistry, veterinary medicine, genetic
counseling and others. Many biologists work in the fields of
wildlife, conservation and environmental sciences. Other biology
majors choose to share their love of biology through careers in
education. The skills of a biologist may also be in demand for
jobs in industry, government and research.

Want more information? Check out the
Major Resources
provided by the Career Development Center.

What are some CMU graduates with this degree doing?

CMU biology majors are working in a variety of fields
including: Missouri Department of Conservation and Wildlife,
Veterinarian, Dentist, ABC Labs, Addison Biological Labs, K-12
education, Military, Nursing, Medicine, and others. Other majors
decide to continue their education in graduate or medical
school.